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YA Book Prize shortlist: Natasha Bowen talks about Skin of the Sea
Caroline CarpenterCaroline is deputy features editor at The Bookseller and chair of the YA Book Prize, as well as being a co-host of children's book radio ...more
Natasha Bowen answers our questions about her novel Skin of the Sea (Penguin Random House Children’s), a story of mermaids and courage inspired by West African history, which has been shortlisted for the YA Book Prize 2022.
Caroline is deputy features editor at The Bookseller and chair of the YA Book Prize, as well as being a co-host of children's book radio ...more
How would you describe Skin of the Sea to someone who hasn’t read it?
Skin of the Sea is a story of magic, mermaids and courage. It is a book that blends the magnificence of West African history, strong characters, myths and adventure.
What inspired the story?
I was inspired by my love for mermaids, history and magic. I devour books but had never read any with Black mermaids, West African mythology and legendary creatures. I basically wrote the book I wanted to read! I think it’s important to have Black main characters in stories across all genres. I finished writing Skin of the Sea the year before Halle Bailey was cast as Ariel in the upcoming remake of "The Little Mermaid" and seeing both the positive and negative reactions to that only reinforced my choice to create this world.
Which character in Skin of the Sea is your favourite, and why?
I think it’s very important to show Black characters as main characters and to chart their journeys of vulnerability and strength. That was another major highlight of writing this novel. We see Simidele making mistakes but learning from them and putting things right, while also having the strength and courage to love herself in the process. The love that she radiates then returns to herself in different ways.
What’s your favourite scene in the book, and why?
My favourite scene is where Yinka is braiding Simi’s hair. Simi is conscious that she is not fully human. The judgement that she feels, and the struggle with what and who she is, is explored throughout the story and this is one of the moments we see her overcoming this. Yinka holds space for Simi and sees and celebrates all aspects of her. This is important for me. Not just Simi struggling with her identity but the support we see both of them giving to one another. It’s a different kind of love but one that is just as important and magical.
What is your top writing tip?
Write the story you want to read. And read as much as you possible can… novels, plays, poetry. Take it all in. When it comes to writing, approach it in the way that most suits you, whether that is writing little and often or for whole weekends. There’s no right way to write!
Which book, film or TV show would you recommend to someone who enjoyed your book?
The Gilded Ones and Raybearer are the first books that come to mind! Inspired by West Africa, they also share parallel themes of magic and mythology. Namina Forna and Jordan Ifueko also create rich worlds that showcase beautiful lands as well as strong and compelling characters.
Read the first chapter of Skin and the Sea here
